A bridge between the world and the hidden wonders of Western Tanzania

Many travellers know Tanzania for the plains of the Serengeti or the beaches of Zanzibar. But there is a corner of this country where nature is still wild, history is palpable and time seems to pass at a different pace: Kigoma.

Karibu Kigoma Tour Operator was born from a shared dream, a promise of authenticity and a desire to introduce the world to the “forgotten pearl” of Lake Tanganyika.

Our History: Local Roots, Global Vision

Our team is the union of two worlds that come together to offer you the best of Tanzania:

Mwajuma – The Local Soul: born and raised in Kigoma, Mwajuma is the driving force and owner of Karibu Kigoma. A daughter of this land, she knows every path, every legend and the pulse of the local market. Her mission is to ensure that every guest is welcomed not as a tourist, but as a friend (Karibu means “Welcome” in Swahili). Mwajuma takes care of the bureaucratic details, local partnerships and network of contacts that make our tours safe and unique.

Marco – Vision and Project: a passionate traveller and dreamer, Marco fell head over heels in love with the Kigoma region at first sight. Fascinated by the ancestral beauty of the chimpanzees of Gombe and Mahale, the landscapes and the hospitality of the local people, he decided to put his experience in project development and communication at the service of this area. Marco takes care of the strategy, the design of the experience and the bridge between the expectations of international travellers and the vibrant reality of Tanzania.

Why did we choose Kigoma?

We didn’t choose Kigoma because it’s an easy destination, we chose it because it’s authentic.

We want you to walk where Jane Goodall began her research, to feel the wind from Lake Tanganyika on your skin and to discover that Tanzania is much bigger and more surprising than you ever imagined.

Our Philosophy

Sustainability: we only work with local guides and support the communities that host us.

Passion: we don’t sell tours, but the privilege of discovering a place we love deeply.

Transparency: we know what it means to travel far from home; that’s why clarity and safety are at the heart of everything we offer.

Beyond Travel: Our Commitment to Kigoma

We believe that tourism should be a driver of growth for our hosts. That’s why Karibu Kigoma Tour Operator doesn’t just show you the beauty of the region, but is actively committed to supporting its social and human fabric.

Support for the Local Economy and Artisans

Each of our tours is designed to promote small businesses in the area: we work with coastal communities to ensure that tourism is an additional resource that respects their traditions.

We will lead you to discover the hidden gems of local craftsmanship: authentic workshops where traditions are kept alive by hand. Visiting these spaces or choosing to buy their creations means sustaining the social and human fabric of the community, supporting honest work and creative heritage.

We will accompany you to visit places unknown to mass tourism, such as local markets, artisan soap factory and precious, entirely handmade, embroidery that decorates the charming mashuka bedspreads, and the fish market.

“We leave not only footprints in the sand, but seeds of hope for the future.”

At Karibu Kigoma Tour Operator, we believe that the perfect trip is one that enriches both the traveller and the land that hosts them. Kigoma is a region of extraordinary beauty, but it is also a community that faces daily challenges. We are committed to transforming every tour into an opportunity for real and sustainable growth for the local population.

Cooperation with local NGOs

For several years, Mwajuma and Marco have been collaborating with two local NGOs which, in both cases, are involved in the safeguarding and protection of underage girls and boys.

Learn N’Play Organisation

Learn N’Play is a free school for 96 children aged 3 to 6 from disadvantaged families in the modest neighbourhood of Kichangachui.

Education is the only path to development. We actively support this primary school, where every child has the right to learn and dream, starting with learning the English language.

What we do: we support the purchase of teaching materials and the maintenance of school facilities.

The Shadow for the Youngsters Foundation

Kigoma Orphanage Centre (KOC), in the Kilimahewa district, is coming Community Development Program lead and running by “The Shadow for the Youngsters Foundation” (Shayo Foundation)

Shayo Foundation works for the development, reduction of stigma, poverty and marginalisation of the poorest orphaned, marginalised and underserved unaccompanied children.

What we do: we work together to provide essential goods and ongoing logistical support.

Want to make a difference? Get actively involved.

Many of our guests ask us how they can help. We have created ‘Conscious Travel Packages’ that include the opportunity to volunteer actively:

Exchange Days: You can spend time at the school or orphanage, participating in daily activities and getting to know the project managers.

Targeted Donations: If you wish to bring materials (books, clothes, medicines), we will guide you to ensure that your donations meet the real needs of the moment.

Total Transparency: Mwajuma and Marco personally oversee each project. Every contribution, large or small, goes directly to its destination without intermediaries.